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The Issues Podcast

The Issues Podcast
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Proverbs 4:23 (KJV) – “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

Welcome to The Issues Podcast (formerly the Dear Church Podcast). Pastors Martin Wickens and Stephen Russ, along with special guests, get to the heart of the real issues that matter. With a burden to stir your heart and challenge your thinking, they dive into key topics within the Independent, Fundame... more

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes102Founded4 years ago
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Religion & Spirituality

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Latest Episodes

The Book of Acts records the birth of the New Testament church—a movement conceived in prayer, fueled by prayer, and sustained by prayer. In this episode, Stephen and Martin dive deeper into its powerful lessons for us today!

Charlie Kirk was not only a political figure—he stood as a bold witness for truth and faith in Christ, which makes his death both a political and spiritual martyrdom. In this conversation, we discuss:

➡️ What this reveals about our culture

➡️ How t... more

🎙️ On this episode of the Issues Podcast, we sit down with two young men in their 20s who are faithfully serving the Lord in ministry. While their years of experience may be fewer, their perspective is fresh, their passion is contagious, and their i... more

As social media grows increasingly toxic, Christians have a unique opportunity to shine as lights through gracious and Spirit-filled communication. In this episode, Martin and Stephen reflect on the future of the podcast while tackling how believers ... more

Key Facts

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Recent Guests

Micah Still
Assistant Pastor at Temple Baptist Church
Temple Baptist Church
Episode: Issue #66 — Young Voices, Lasting Impact: Serving God in Your 20s
Sam Brennan
Guest and question asker
Episode: Issue #63 – ⚡️ Lightning Round ⚡️
Dr. Alton Beal
President of Ambassador Baptist College, Evangelist
Ambassador Baptist College
Episode: Issue #62 – Interview with Evangelist Alton Beal
Dave Knopfsinger
Mentor to one of the hosts
Episode: Issue #40 – The Importance of Fellowship
Jeff Jones
An encourager and influencer among pastors
Episode: Issue #40 – The Importance of Fellowship
Shane Rice
Pastor from Anchor Baptist Church, has experience as a missionary.
Anchor Baptist Church
Episode: Issue #40 – The Importance of Fellowship
Landon Street
New pastor, recently married, and voluntarily editing the podcast
Collin Sill Baptist Church, Georgia
Episode: Issue #35 – Why do bad things happen to good people? (LIVE)

Hosts

Stephen Russ
Host and Pastor engaged in discussions about church issues, Biblical interpretations, and ministry challenges.
Martin Wickens
Co-host and Pastor contributing on various issues affecting ministry and church dynamics.
Tom Brennan
Co-host and Pastor sharing insights on church practices and challenges faced by contemporary ministry leaders.

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 148 ratings
  • Fantastic!

    Looking for an independent fundamental Baptist podcast that is godly, Biblical, and doesn’t bash other baptists just because they are part of another “camp” of Independent Baptists, then look no further than the Issues Podcast. If I were to describe in one word what it is like to listen to these three men discuss issues, it would be the word “refreshing.”

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Joel 1993
    United States4 months ago
  • Thoughtful presentation

    I appreciate this podcast for its practicality and thoughtfulness. Although it is easy to tell that each pastor does not think exactly like each other, they are still able to talk through issues in a thoughtful way and arrive at sensible conclusions that do not contradict the Bible, but apply it. Also, it is entertaining!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Avidly Listenering
    United States7 months ago
  • Colossians 1:3,4

    To Tom Brennan, Martin Wickens, and Stephen Russ,

    I’ve listened to every episode of The Issues Podcast, and I just want to say thank you. Your discussions have challenged me to think more deeply about my faith and have pushed me to be more intentional in studying the Word of God. You’ve helped me see things from perspectives I hadn’t considered before, not just to hear another point of view but to truly examine everything through Scripture. This podcast has also led me to other valuable resourc... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    David 6’7”
    Canada7 months ago
  • Wickens fan

    I go to the same church as the Russo brothers and yes, they really do love brother Wickens!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    The big Muzungu
    United States9 months ago
  • The King of England

    Brother Russ does not exaggerate. We love Brother Wickens!

    -The Russo brothers

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    SRusso04
    United Statesa year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

The hosts are commended for their candid discussions and humor, making complex issues accessible and engaging.
Overall, the podcast is seen as a valuable resource for those within the Independent Baptist movement.
Some listeners have expressed a desire for longer episodes and more in-depth explorations of topics.
Listeners appreciate the thoughtful and balanced approach to discussing controversial topics relevant to the church.
Many find the conversations refreshing and biblical, often leading to personal growth in faith discussions.

Top Religion & Spirituality Podcasts

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Issue #62 – Interview with Evangelist Alton Beal
Q: You've worked with young people then, either traveling and preaching to young people, or when you were at the school before you were president, and now as leader of the school, you worked with young people for decades. What encourages you about the caliber of young people that are coming into the school or considering the school?
Dr. Beal remarks on the refreshing zeal and seriousness in serving the Lord seen among recent incoming freshmen.
Issue #62 – Interview with Evangelist Alton Beal
Q: So how many churches would you say that you have either been in in the last 10 years or talked to the pastors of in the last 10 years?
Dr. Beal estimates he has interacted with somewhere between three and five hundred churches.
Issue #61 – LIVE Episode, Feedback and Church Unity
Q: What do you use for a kid's curriculum for Sunday school?
We essentially use our Sunday school teachers to write their own lessons.
Issue #30 – To Repent, or Not to Repent...
Q: What does godly sorrow work toward?
It leads to repentance that results in salvation and a desire to clear oneself of wrongdoing.
Issue #30 – To Repent, or Not to Repent...
Q: What would you say about a politician who said that they had no need to repent of anything? Would that be a red flag?
It raises concerns about their self-awareness and moral standing, indicating they might lack recognition of their own faults.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Issues Podcast

What is The Issues Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This podcast features a blend of insightful discussions led by a trio of pastors who tackle pressing issues relevant to the Independent, Fundamental Baptist community. The hosts engage in thoughtful conversations about themes such as church dynamics, effective ministry practices, and biblical interpretations, often inviting guests to enrich the dialogue. A unique aspect is the candid approach to controversial topics, allowing for a well-rounded exploration of differing viewpoints within the faith. With a focus on enhancing listeners' spiritual journeys, the episodes mix humor and seriousness, aiming to inspire and educate through biblical principles and real-life applications.

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How many listeners does The Issues Podcast get?

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What are the audience demographics for The Issues Podcast?

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Which podcasts are similar to The Issues Podcast?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Issues Podcast:

1. Enjoying the Journey
2. Wretched Radio with Todd Friel
3. Everyday Truth with Kurt Skelly
4. Spurgeon's Sermons
5. Focus on the Family with Jim Daly

How many episodes of The Issues Podcast are there?

The Issues Podcast launched 4 years ago and published 102 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact The Issues Podcast?

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Where can I see ratings and reviews for The Issues Podcast?

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What guests have appeared on The Issues Podcast?

Recent guests on The Issues Podcast include:

1. Micah Still
2. Sam Brennan
3. Dr. Alton Beal
4. Dave Knopfsinger
5. Jeff Jones
6. Shane Rice
7. Landon Street

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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